The Benue State government has revealed that it is working round the clock to ensure that the three major indigenous languages in the state: Tiv, Idoma and Igede are taught in all schools across the state in line with the new National Policy on Education on the teaching of mother tongue at basic education level.
Commissioner of Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Dennis Ityavyar disclosed this at the grand finale / award presentation at the maiden edition of Benue Inter-Secondary Schools Cultural Essay Competition organized recently by the office of the Queen of Culture and Tourism.
The commissioner explained that the ministry, in collaboration with the standing committee on the teaching of these languages have mapped out various strategies for the successful implementation of the programme.
While commending the Queen of Culture, Miss Mimi Pine for setting the pace in that regard, Professor Ityavyar called on other relevant stakeholders to join hands with the ministry in the task of teaching indigenous languages in schools across the state.
“From the records, this is the first time our students are being challenged to write an essay in English and translate same into their respective mother-tongues which I believe is a welcome development that should be encouraged,” he stated.
